Everyone should have a special birthday, a day that celebrates a precious life. But who gets a day that is officially proclaimed in their honor? My husband, Marshall Brodien does.

Mayor Kevin Burns of Geneva Illinois proclaimed July 10, 2018, Marshall’s 84th birthday, Marshall Brodien Day in the city of Geneva. The announcement was made last night at a meeting at City Hall. The mayor spoke about Marshall and showed a brief video of Marshall performing magic in his early days. He then invited me, Marshall Jr., longtime friend, comic magician Ken Mate, and friend Tom Holbrook dressed as Wizzo the Wacky Wizard to speak.

The proclamation came about after Tom Holbrook recently called the mayor to inquire on the possibility of such an honor. Holbrook noted that Marshall is a Chicago icon for his production of magic sets and cards, character named Wizzo that he played on Chicago’s Bozo’s Circus for 26 years, as well as magician and mentor to magicians across the country.

The document states that on behalf of the more than 22,000 people that proudly call Geneva home, they honor Marshall’s career, magical talents, and the family’s mission for Alzheimer’s Awareness.